VS
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special and 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 150km/h (93 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special from Japan was powered by a 654cc OHV twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 lbs) and with a seat height of 760mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 150km/h (93 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special | 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 654 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 150 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 297.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 220.0 kg | 322.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 760 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special
The 1978 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special is a 654cc twin-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special Profile →About the 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy
Born in 1990, the 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy is a 1338cc twin-cylinder cruiser producing 55hp from Harley-Davidson.
Full 1990 Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy Profile →